Quarter by quarter: Fremantle v Geelong

12 April 2010 — 12:00am

First quarter

Fremantle put the reigning premiers under massive pressure, but the Cats were somehow able to slither through the term with a four-goal lead, mainly through the efforts of the outstanding Gary Ablett. A one-two punch from either pocket from Ablett and Jimmy Bartel quelled the Dockers' initial burst.

Second quarter

Fremantle stood up to the Geelong barrage and dished out some of its own. Matthew Pavlich inserted himself into the game with some All-Australian touches, and with Hayden Ballantyne continuing to irritate, the Dockers refused to go away.

Third quarter

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The Cats came out after half-time like they meant business, and them did it. Four goals in 12 minutes re-established their dominance, with James Podsiadly also showing at 28-years-old, there is still hope for anyone who can take a mark and dominate a pack, as he did with increasing regularity.

Fourth quarter

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Pavlich's goal 19 seconds in set up a barnstorming finish. Tom Hawkins' third from the boundary line was answered by Stephen Hill and Ballantyne. Mitch Duncan's outside of the boot completed a dream return to Perth for him – and then Adam McPhee proved the doubters wrong with a crucial goal. With 52 seconds left, Geelong's attempts to come out of defence finally cracked, and Paul Duffield straightened to win an amazing game.